Fashion Forward for Fall: Must Haves to Keep In Your Closet

With the chilly temps starting to roll in, everyone in Michigan is packing up their scroll tee shirts, tanks and terry cloth skirts to bring out the wool pants and cardigans.

Some of the hottest fashions for fall this year seem to go with almost everything you SHOULD have in your closet right now. The basics are what you need to start a trend. If you don't have them you better re-examine your wardrobe and head out to shop before someone notices how far behind you are.

Here is a list of the top 5 things both men & women need in their closets to survive stylishly this year and for many to come.

WOMEN

1. Black Skinny Pants

Nordstrom.comTheory 'Rosel Tailor' Slim Pants, $230, Nordstom

These are the easiest to find. Black doesn't make you bulge like a lot of other pants do. Skinny pants can be paired with almost every shoe in your closet, so these are good to have on those days you are late to work, or not feeling so hot.

2. A Simple Short Coat

Guess.comHarmony Plaid Peacoat, $148, Guess

A short jacket is great for work, the bar, or even a sporting event. These are great because you can change the style of your outfit within seconds. You can cover up a plain tee shirt to go to church and not have to change your entire outfit.

3. Clogs / Mules

Nordstrom.comJuicy Couture 'Bunny' Clog, $149.95, Nordstrom

These go great with Jeans, and are great for the active person. Clogs can actually accessorize your outfit if chosen carefully. Look for odd colors, or extra detail on the shoe such as rhinestones.

4. A-Line Skirt

kohls.comApt 9 A-Line Skirt, $29.99, Kohl's

An A-Line skirt is a great transition piece from Summer into Fall. Extra buttons or ribbons on a skirt can affect how "heavy" you look, so be careful not to get too detailed on A-lines.

5. Thick Scarves

urbanoutfitters.comSupernova Scarf, $24, Urban Outfitters

These are essential if you need to "spice" up an outfit. Adding a scarf can do plenty to make you look like a diva. Picking a neutral color allows more options. The best thing is scarves can double as a belt if used correctly.

MEN

1. Pull On Boots

jcrew.comSuede MacAlister pull-on boots, $165, Jcrew

These are essential, especially for the man in a hurry. In Michigan, with the cold weather, this style is great because it maintains warmth & style all in one. No laces or zippers to deal with make it easy to pair with anything.

2. Knit Beanies

www.bivouacannarbor.comThe North Face Buster Knit Beanie, $25, The North Face

Another essential item, beanies are great for outdoor events and even to meet a friend for lunch. Right now, this style is the hottest, but if you're not about showing off, you can to opt for the version without the bill.

3. A Plain Hoodie

shop.pacsun.comLilo Hoodie, $39.50, Pacific Sunwear

Everyone has one with his Alma Mater or a special design logo across it, but the piece everyone should opt for more, is a plain hoodie. These are great for dressing "over" things, such as polos, button downs, & sweater vests. Darker colors can be worn more often, since they are easy to match with other pieces.

A necessary piece for the office, these are great for meetings with the bosses, lunch conference calls, & after work rendezvous. The best thing about dark button downs are that they can be worn without a tie, and you still look as good as you would with one on.

If you do not have a pair of these in your closet, all I can say is... "Where have you been?" Straight leg jeans are one of the number one things you need. Snag a lighter pair for Fall, and a darker denim for the colder months.